Colder Temps are Coming: Be Prepared: Part II

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Be prepared as colder tempatures near the Bartlett area

An ice storm can be one of the most devastating winter storms. Ice storms are caused when a winter event starts as snow in the upper atmosphere. As the snow travels into warmer air it melts into rain droplets. The rain then hits the frozen ground and refreezes. This ‘frozen rain’ can quickly accumulate and entomb everything in the landscape with a glaze of ice so heavy that it can split trees in half and turn roads and sidewalks into lethal sheets of thick, smooth ice. The results are fallen trees and branches, sagging or down power lines, treacherous, and driving conditions that can cause severe accidents. But the worst part of these storms is the massive power outages they can cause.

In preparation for what might be a rain/snow/ice event, there are several things you can do to prepare.

Always keep a supply of non-perishable food items and water (don’t forget a hand opener for canned goods).

Have extra blankets at the ready.

Always keep an extra supply of batteries on-hand.

Check flashlight to make sure they are operational and have a battery-powered radio.

To prevent water pipes from freezing, keep faucets turned on slightly to create a slow drip. Also, know where your main water valve is in your house in case you need to shut it off if a water pipe does burst.

Keep these supplies in a central location where everyone knows to find them in the dark.

Some other things to consider might be putting any prescription drugs, special items, and a first aid kit in a central location.  If you are going to use an alternate heat source, make sure to follow all manufacturer's safety guidelines.